Have You Thought About An Apprenticeship?

Youngsters in Dorset are being encouraged to consider doing an apprenticeship.

A number of schools across the county are running clubs where school leavers can learn all about the benefits of employment combined with training.

The Council strategy aims to help young people prepare for life beyond their school years. Pupils are offered the chance to practice completing applications, improve their interview and presentation skills, and meet local employers and apprentices.

In June 2013, over 9% of 16-18 year olds living in Dorset were in a job without accredited training which Council Officials says can be changed for the better;

"If those young people were on an apprenticeship, they would gain nationally recognised qualifications, have better career prospects and better earning potential."

Vicky joined Wessex FM as an apprentice in 2011 and is now a member of staff and studying at University;

"I've gained loads of great skills and have plenty of experience in a workplace. I'm now studying at Plymouth University and am working toward my degree. I'd definitely recommend an apprenticeship to anyone, I've learned a lot."

The Purbeck School was the first to launch the campaign, and will be followed by Queen Elizabeth's School in Wimborne, Ferndown Upper School, Blandford School and Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester in the next few weeks.

The evening event at The Purbeck School, in Wareham, was held to help students and parents find out more about apprenticeships. Headteacher Leanne Symonds said:

"We were delighted to welcome over 100 families to The Purbeck School to learn more about apprenticeships. Families were told about the careers that can be pursued, what employers are looking for, how to apply, what current apprentices think of the scheme and the types of learning that goes hand-in-hand with time in the workplace.

"The apprenticeship evening is part of a wider strategy to help us prepare our students for life beyond school, including the return of work experience for Year 10 students. We are being supported by Dorset County Council and The Wareham Mayor's Fund, which is going to help to finance this important work."